Masters of Science by Research and Dissertation (MSc) and Masters of Arts by Research (MA)

The period of registration for these degrees is one year full-time or two years part-time. You will normally need a first or second class honours degree or equivalent in a subject appropriate to the proposed field of research.

The degree involves investigation and evaluation of an approved research topic and the presentation of a dissertation. This is between 15,000 and 20,000 words long, depending on the subject discipline. It will be the subject of an oral examination, in which you will show how you have critically investigated your area of research.

The award of MSc by Research and Dissertation or MA by Research is at HE level 4. This is the same as MPhil, but only carries half the credits (180).

In exceptional circumstances, we may consider you for admission to a research degree without the conventional qualifications. If you have substantial relevant professional experience, including publications or written reports, the University will consider these as a potential alternative basis for an application for admission to a research degree programme.